Farmer News
1 May, 2026
Memorable experience for Mia
REPRESENTING the Southern Campdrafting Association at the Nutrien Classic 2026 Young Ambassador Quest provided Mia Moloney with a lifetime of memories.
Drafting under the lights and standing on the hill among the vendors, looking out over the packed arena, was a surreal experience for the ambassador.
“I was so excited to meet the other girls and become this confident new persona,” Mia said.
“To be someone the kids and the crowd could look up to.”
Campdrafting since she was eight years old, Mia was excited to stand on the biggest stage in Australia and see everyone looking back at all the ambassadors.
There were some powerful moments outside the arena too.
Conversations with her fellow competitors revealed their reasoning for stepping up to the Young Ambassadors Quest.
“Learning the stories behind why we all came to Nutrien was very wholesome and heartfelt,” she said.
“One of the biggest learning curves was realising that everyone feels like an imposter sometimes.”
One of her proudest moments was being awarded Player’s Player (TeamSTar) which is voted on by fellow competitors.
“It showed me what genuine connection can do,” she said.
“I made a conscious effort to support everyone.
“Riding my home-bred mare Arolok Topez was also a proud moment; having my little workhorse stand alongside some of Australia’s best performance horses was pretty cool.”
To Mia, campdrafting represents the best of Australian rural heritage.
“It’s where craftsmanship and showmanship overlap. It’s an event where stock sense meets storytelling and where people from every corner of the country connect through shared values. Like any station camp or camp fire, we gather, share stories and learn from each other.”
The charity element also gave the Quest deeper meaning; with support for My Room - Children’s Cancer Charity and Farm Angels (formerly Drought Angels).
“These charities represent the heart of rural communities, showing up for each other when it matters most,” Mia said.
“It wasn’t just about a title, it was about using my voice to stand with causes that truly make a difference.”
Mia believes the Young Ambassador Quest wouldn’t be possible without the vision and dedication of the Classic Ladies Foundation, whose commitment to developing young women in campdrafting continues to shape the future of the sport.
“Such a charity-based program really softens such a money driven event.
“To every donor and sponsor, thank you for believing in young people and the future of our industry. Your support not only elevated the event but also helped raise vital funds for important causes and it was a privilege to represent something backed by such generosity and confidence.”
Mia also thanked the competitors and the Classic Ladies (past and present) for their authenticity, support and shared laughter.
“The friendships formed during the quest are among the greatest achievements,” she said.
Mia’s hopes for her future in campdrafting involve more than just wins on the board.
“I want to be remembered for contributing positively to our sport, running 90s and hopefully for bringing a laugh along the way,” she said.
She encourages all young women considering entering the quest to do so.
“Growth rarely happens in your comfort zone,” she said.
“Opportunities like this are all about confidence, connection and finding your voice. Opportunities like this have a shelf life so take the chances when they arise. If you’re genuine, you’re already a winner.”